Orange Crush Soda Pop Cake

If you crave a fun retro treat with the bright zing of oranges without spending hours in the kitchen this delightful Orange Crush Soda Pop Cake may become your new go-to summer dessert Whether for a backyard picnic or potluck it is both refreshing and fuss-free plus you only need three simple ingredients

I first discovered this cake when trying to make a last-minute dessert for a family BBQ and it disappeared so fast I barely snagged a slice

Ingredients

• White cake mix: makes a fluffy base with minimal effort check labels for quality brands that bake up moist
• Orange soda: brings the pop of flavor and replaces eggs and oil choose a soda with real sugar for the best taste
• Whipped topping: adds a creamy cool finish look for brands that thaw well and hold their shape
• Orange zest and mandarin oranges (optional garnish): both dial up freshness and color if you can get sweet mandarins use them

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to the right temperature 350 degrees ensures your cake bakes evenly with a tender crumb

Grease the Pan

Coat a 13 by 9 inch pan well so your cake pops out nicely you can use nonstick spray but a light brush of oil works too

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl empty your cake mix and pour in the full can of orange soda stir until there are no lumps and the batter looks airy and glossy this step is quick and you do not need a mixer

Bake the Cake

Pour the smooth batter into your prepared pan jiggle to level and transfer to the oven bake for about 30 minutes a toothpick should come out clean from the center when it is ready

Cool then Frost

Let the cake cool in the pan fully before starting the frosting spread whipped topping evenly for a cloud-like finish top with a light shower of orange zest and a few mandarin segments for extra flair

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The first time I made this I let my kids scatter the mandarin slices on top and it instantly became a new family favorite the burst of orange from both zest and soda makes each bite bright and nostalgic

Storage Tips

Store leftovers loosely covered in the refrigerator for up to three days The whipped topping stays stable and refreshing which means you can make this ahead for gatherings If taking to a picnic transport it chilled and garnish just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to use a different cake mix like yellow for a more custardy base it works well Lemon lime soda gives a lighter citrus note and you can swap in frozen non dairy whipped topping if needed

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Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream Small squares look festive topped with extra mandarin sections Perfect as a make ahead treat for kids birthdays or sunny weekend get togethers

Cultural or Historical Context

Soda pop cakes started appearing across America in the 1950s when home cooks prized quick fun party desserts This orange version harks back to soda fountains and classic summer potlucks bringing a bit of nostalgia to your table

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other soda flavors instead?

Yes, you can swap in lemon-lime or other fruit sodas for a different twist while keeping the preparation simple.

→ Does the cake need eggs or oil?

No additional eggs or oil are needed. The soda provides moisture and lift to the cake mix.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Cover the cake and store in the refrigerator to keep the whipped topping fresh. Enjoy within a few days for best taste.

→ Can I make this ahead for a party?

Absolutely. Bake and cool the cake ahead of time, then add the whipped topping and garnishes just before serving.

→ Are there options for garnish?

Orange zest and mandarin segments make attractive toppings, but sprinkles or other fruits work well too.